The Griffith Park Livery Stable, 480 Riverside Dr. (in the Los Angeles Equestrian Center), Burbank (tel. 818/840-9063; www.la-equestriancenter.com), rents horses by the hour for Western or English riding through Griffith Park's hills. There's a 200-pound weight limit, and children have to be at least 6 and at least 4 feet tall. Horse rental costs about $20 per hour; maximum rental is 2 hours. You can also arrange for private 1-hour lessons by calling tel. 818/569-3666. The stables are open daily from 8am to 5pm, and cash is required for payment.

Another popular horseback riding outfit is Sunset Ranch, located at 3400 Beachwood Dr. off of Franklin Avenue., just under the HOLLYWOOD sign. Horse rentals are offered daily from 9am to 5pm for all levels of riders. The ranch is on the edge of Griffith Park with access to 52 miles of trails. Also available are private night rides (very romantic), Dinner Rides, and riding lessons. Rates are $20 per hour with a $10 deposit. No reservations are required. For more information call tel. 323/469-5450 or log onto their website at www.sunsetranchhollywood.com.